Features - Page 4 of 144 - Potomac Local News

Picnic in the Park Returns to Fredericksburg: Fun Every Tuesday in June

Published June 4, 2026 at 1:07PM

Looking for a perfect midweek summer outing with the family? Head to Kenmore Memorial Park (also known as Memorial Park) every Tuesday through the end of June for the popular Picnic in the Park series — a beloved local tradition since 1997.

The free events run from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at 1401 Kenmore Ave., offering live music, food trucks and vendors, shaded areas, a playground, restrooms, and plenty of family-friendly fun. Bring a blanket, chairs, and a picnic lunch — or grab something from the on-site vendors.

Complete Guide to Occoquan RiverFest & Craft Show 2026: Dates, Hours, Vendors, Duck Splash, Kids Activities & More

By Potomac Local News

Published June 4, 2026 at 11:00AM

The RiverFest & Craft Show features over 300–330+ artisans, crafters, and vendors lining the historic streets of Occoquan. Visitors can shop for handmade jewelry, artwork, pottery, woodworking, clothing, home décor, and much more while enjoying the charming small-town atmosphere.

The festival spills into scenic River Mill Park, where you’ll find live music, a Beer & Wine Garden, food vendors, and stunning river views.

Pools Open This Weekend in Prince William and Fredericksburg

By Potomac Local News

Published May 30, 2026 at 7:48AM

“Prince William County Parks & Recreation pools and waterparks are open THIS WEEKEND,” Prince William County Parks & Recreation reported. “Grab your sunglasses, swimsuit and sunscreen and head on down to your favorite pool or waterpark for a splish-splashing good time starting this weekend.”

“The Pool is OPEN! Summer fun starts now at the Doris E. Buffett Pool,” Fredericksburg parks officials announced. “Grab your sunscreen, bring your friends, and dive into a season full of splashes, sunshine, and poolside memories.”

Warbirds Land at Warrenton Airport This June

By Potomac Local News

Published May 29, 2026 at 6:10AM

A rare collection of WWII warbirds will visit Warrenton-Fauquier Airport on Saturday and Sunday, June 13-14, for a public Warbird Expo celebrating America 250.

The Capital Wing of the Commemorative Air Force is bringing several historic aircraft, including a TBM Avenger torpedo bomber, Boeing PT-17 Stearman biplane, and Fairchild UC-61 Forwarder. Visitors can also see a B-17 Flying Fortress and B-25 Mitchell from the Arizona Wing. The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days at 1533 Iris Trail in Midland with free parking.

Rain Cancels Pool Openings Across Region

By Potomac Local News

Published May 24, 2026 at 7:37AM

Several local swimming pools remained closed this weekend as rain and cool temperatures washed out the start of the summer season. Prince William County announced Saturday evening that all outdoor pools and water parks would remain closed on Sunday, May 24, due to inclement weather.

In Manassas Park, officials canceled the Soft Opening for Signal Bay Waterpark on Friday night and kept the facility closed on Sunday because temperatures stayed below 70 degrees with ongoing rain. The city expressed disappointment after months of preparation and encouraged residents to sign up for text alerts for future updates.

Record Crowd Supports Vettes for Willing Warriors

By Potomac Local News

Published May 23, 2026 at 8:56AM

A large crowd enjoys the 7th Annual Vettes for Willing Warriors among rows of classic Corvettes and cars at the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run. (Photo credit: Willing Warriors)

More than 1,100 community members and over 200 cars turned out for the seventh annual Vettes for Willing Warriors at the Warrior Retreat at Bull Run, setting a new attendance record for the popular car show.

The event brought together car enthusiasts, families, volunteers, and local businesses to support Willing Warriors and its mission of serving wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and their families. The nonprofit provides cost-free respite stays at its 37-acre Warrior Retreat at Bull Run in Haymarket, along with programs focused on healing, recovery, and support for moral injury.

From Stafford County Arrest to Columbia Graduate: Jonathan Wrenn Reflects on Rebuilding His Life

By Kelly Sienkowski

Published May 14, 2026 at 3:00PM

Wrenn

From Stafford County court records to a Columbia University graduation stage, Jonathan Wrenn’s path has been anything but linear.

In 2018, Potomac Local News reported on the arrest of Jonathan Wrenn in connection with a Stafford County homicide case. He later served time for his role in that incident.

Fredericksburg Women Win National Pool Title

By Potomac Local News

Published May 14, 2026 at 2:00PM

A group of Fredericksburg women returned from Las Vegas $10,000 richer after winning the 2026 APA Ladies 8-Ball Championship. The team, known as the Viper Queens, defeated the competition at the Westgate Las Vegas late last month to earn the title and bragging rights back home.

Team members Joanna Powers, Heather Riley, Jean Walston and Imelda Samples play regularly in the American Poolplayers Association league at their local poolroom in Fredericksburg. They were one of 256 teams that qualified for the national event.

Art Walk, Trivia Nights & New Bookstore: Occoquan Delivers a Perfect Spring in 2026

By Potomac Local News

Published May 5, 2026 at 10:31AM

Editor’s Note: This feature article was based on a recent conversation from the Potomac Local Podcast with Sarah Burzio, Executive Director of Visit Occoquan. Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/mm39Kdj3plw?si=u3BLNjFXkHCWU-34

As spring blooms along the Occoquan River, this charming riverside town is rolling out a lineup of events and openings that perfectly capture its small-town magic. Just off I-95 yet a world away, Occoquan feels like a hidden gem where 100% locally owned businesses line walkable streets, artists thrive, and neighbors gather under the trees. This May, visitors and residents alike can dive into creativity, community, and cozy reads before the town’s big Riverfest celebration in June.

Hylton Performing Arts Center Names Carolyn Hays as New Executive Director

By Potomac Local News

Published April 30, 2026 at 3:00PM

The Hylton Performing Arts Center has named Carolyn Hays as its new executive director, effective May 10, 2026. Hays, who has served as the center’s director of development since February 2024, succeeds Rick Davis following a national search. Davis is retiring after nearly 15 years as executive director.

Hays brings more than two decades of experience in strategic planning, board development, fundraising and organizational leadership across the arts, higher education and healthcare philanthropy sectors. She previously held positions at Washington Performing Arts, Washington National Opera, the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and community hospitals in Texas and Northern Virginia. She has also taught arts leadership and management at the University of Houston and George Mason University and currently serves on the board of the Prince William Chamber of Commerce as a member of the 2026 Leadership Prince William class.